Using Neuman System Model, the author probes a ventilator-dependent patient's care needs in physical, physiological and psychosocial aspects. The patient was a survivor of a cervical spinal injury. The author collected data through patient observation and interview in the respiratory care center of a hospital. Data was analyzed and the results indicated three major nursing problems: failure of ventilator weaning-off, hopelessness and the primary caregiver's role tension. The author established trustworthy rapport with the patient first prior to provision with individualized nursing interventions. Collaborating with the medical team including physicians and respiratory therapists, a planned training to wean off the ventilator was implemented. The patient was taught use of a speaking valve to help with verbal expression of his feelings. The patient's wife was instructed care-related skills to facilitate her participation in patient care after patient discharge. In the meanwhile, a post-hospitalization referral was made to the home care team to relieve some pressure the patient with the family might face. With the home care team's follow-up and provision of resources, the patient obtained adequate care and the family had good quality of life as well.